2007-08 Annual Notification of Student Rights under FERPA

What is FERPA?

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords you, the student, certain rights with respect to your education record.

What are my rights under FERPA?

As a college student you have the following rights:

• to inspect and review your education records (does not include parents' financial information or University Police records)
• to request amendment of your education record
• to have some control over the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent
• to file with the U.S. Department of Education a complaint concerning alleged failures by the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

What is Directory Information?

Consistent with FERPA guidelines, Millersville University has designated the following items as Directory Information:

• Name
• Address (home, email & local at school)
• Phone Numbers (home & local phone at school)
• Major
• Dates of Attendance
• Degree(s) earned

The height and weight of athletic team members are also considered Directory Information.

Can I control the release of Directory Information?

Yes, you can restrict the release of Directory Information by completing a form (available in the Registrar's Office). You should carefully consider imposing a restriction on the Directory Information. The limits of our student information system make it an all or nothing option; you cannot select the Directory Information items. Advisers, student activities, campus organizations and friends would not be able to obtain directory information on you. This restriction should be reserved for extreme circumstances, such as harassment, or on the advice of a legal or medical professional.

Am I required to use my Social Security number as a personal identifier?

To prevent potential security and privacy issues associated with using Social Security numbers as primary computer system IDs, Millersville University has discontinued the use of a Social Security number as a personal identifier for students. Beginning in the summer of 2003, a new MAX ID has been assigned to all students. Your MAX ID begins with an upper case "M" and appears on your Marauder Onecard (student ID card). MAX ID numbers are used by students to access records through MAX web or phone.

How does FERPA impact routine services such as registration, grade information and transcripts?

When you conduct business with the Registrar's Office you should be prepared to present photo identification. FERPA requires student consent for the release of, or amendment to academic information. These steps help ensure the privacy of your education record.

Do my parents or other family members have access to my education records?

A parent or guardian does not have access to your education records without your written consent, unless your parent or guardian presents a certified copy of the most recent federal income tax form that reports you as a dependent.

Which University officer is responsible for administering the FERPA guidelines?

The Vice President for Student Affairs is responsible for institutional compliance with the FERPA guidelines. The Office of the Registrar is responsible for the maintenance and release of the education record. The Registrar's Office is located on the first floor of Lyle.

Please direct your FERPA questions to candae.deen@millersville.edu